New Model Army

The New Model Army was the army of the Commonwealth of England from 1645 to 1660. Parliament formed the New Model Army in 1645 to centralize its forces - previously raised and organized on a regional basis. It was to be a disciplined army with uniforms, regular pay, and a reliable supply system. Its first commander, Thomas Fairfax, ensured that its officers were appointed on merit, and he assembled an effective staff. Oliver Cromwell, appointed second-in-command, had responsibility for the cavalry, while other competent officers were in charge of supply, intelligence, military justice, and artillery and engineering. Although many of the infantry were reluctant conscripts, a core of dedicated veterans made sure the New Model Army became an ideologically motivated force. In 1647, soldier representatives asserted that they were "not a mere mercenary army", but fighting for "the defense of our own and the people's just rights and liberties." Successful in battle and siege, the army gained a decisive political influence, forcing the execution of King Charles I of England in 1649 and permitting Cromwell's assumption of power as Lord Protector in 1653.